As most of you on Facebook probably already know, Facebook business pages have now been converted to the new timeline. Now, I personally am not a huge fan of the layout (maybe I’m just being slow to change) but I’ll try to be unbiased in identifying 3 key ways to utilize the Facebook timeline to its fullest potential. Here goes!

Tip #1: Take advantage of apps.

For those of you bummed about losing the welcome banner page, take solace in Facebook’s app section.  This little section nudges users to do whatever you’d like for them to do, whether it be subscribing to your newsletter, shopping, or entering a contest.

UrbanOG effectively uses their app section to point fans over to shop, take part in their giveaway and watch videos.

Tip #2: Relevant cover photos

Think of the cover photo as a first impression for visitors. For one, the thing is huge, as it spans across the top of your Facebook page. So it goes without saying that since people are going to see this first, make that first impression count! Some pages have a photo of their team, which gives your page a personal touch, but I personally think your cover photo should be a visual persuasion as to why visitors should “like” your page. This might be as simple as displaying an engaging product photo, or combining some brief text about your services with a photo. For “timeline inspiration”, check out some of my personal favorites below. With these photos, the timeline just may be growing on me.

Nutella Page

I’m already obsessed with Nutella, so this cover photo certainly doesn’t help my more rational side to not go out and buy a jar of the deliciousness otherwise known as Nutella.

Okay, so Jerome Vadon’s page below is not a business page, but it’s still easy to draw inspiration from this creatively designed cover photo.

Can you blame me for shamelessly promoting our own Facebook timeline? I’ve gotta give some Facebook cred to our design team for this well composed cover photo.

Tip #3:  Highlight your content

If you’re anything like me and tend to highlight everything that you deem important, be careful of this dangerous feature. As the subtitle suggests, this feature enables businesses to highlight important posts, which can look amazing if you’re highlighting photos, as they are spread across the page (kind of like the cover photo). Highlight a good mix of features, whether it’s an office happening, featured product, or perhaps an entertaining blog post link. All Judaica highlights a neat iPhone case that’s Passover themed.